Evaluate for otitis media with effusion, cerumen, or other physical examination findings. Patients who fail hearing assessments at the school, primary care office or at the health department should first be scheduled for formal audiogram at a University of Michigan facility. Patients with evidence of hearing loss require medical evaluation in Pediatric Otolaryngology.

Children not at risk of speech and language problems may be managed expectantly for 3 months.

Laterality and duration of effusion should be documented

Suggested Additional Test/Management Prior to Specialty Visit

Audiogram and speech/language evaluation as appropriate.

Hearing should be tested for effusion persisting 3 months or greater or if concern of significant hearing loss

Patient Education/Information (includes preps)

Appointment Timeframe

For urgent audiology appointments, contact the division of Audiology. Physician appointments will be scheduled for one week after formal audiogram to allow time for cancellation when the audiogram is normal. We discourage delaying the hearing test in order to wait for a coordinated (same day) otolaryngology clinic appointment.

How to Get Results to Consultant

UMHS Patients: See Michart.
External Patients: Hand carry results including hard copies or diskette of any imaging studies to visit.